Meet Sambu the lion cub, Club Leon's new mascot named after Rubens Sambueza

Club Leon replace their current lion mascot with a real-life baby lion named Sambu.

True to their name, Mexican side Club Leon have appointed a fearsome new mascot: an actual, real-life lion.

Three cubs were recently born at Leon Zoo, one of which -- Sambu -- was named after Leon's new signing, midfielder Rubens Sambueza.

As well as his 34-year-old namesake, Sambu has also joined the club as their new official mascot.

Sambu was sworn in at an unveiling ceremony that saw the youngster sign up as a club member -- using a paw print, naturally.

While critics maintain that he's still a little roar, Sambu has already shown great potential -- including some impressive heading skills.

Club Leon hope their new mane attraction can restore some pride at the club after a paw first half of the season.

Meanwhile, Sambueza was also overjoyed to be on the cusp of completing his move to Leon.

"I am very enthusiastic and eager to do great things," he said. "I also want to meet the new member of the family that has my name. It is a great club, with great fans, board and players. I will soon be there."

After finishing 14th in the Apertura stage of the 2018-19 Liga MX season, Leon will be hoping that Sambueza and Sambu can help the team restore its pride in the second half of the campaign.